On the run

Chapter 18

If there was a word to describe this party, it would be 'fake' just as Thea said. It was evident during the brief mingling session that no one really cared about the charity aspect of the party. If anything, I think they were here to maintain their generous image in the society and also to seek business opportunities. 

Thea and the others had already taped on their fake smiles, greeting the people who approached them and I was currently munching on some snacks from the buffet table that was spread out and watching the whole situation go on. I did politely greet anyone who approached me and did a little advertisement of our company but it got boring after a while. 

"Ms. Stephanie, the event's about to start. Andrew had asked to keep a close eye on the people as he hasn't spotted her on any of the security cameras" Tony whispered in my ear. "Security cameras? What's he doing there?" I followed him to the front of the podium where chairs were arranged around circular tables which were decorated with flowers and other beautifying objects. 

I do wish they had put some food on there too. 

Most people had already taken their seats including Mike and Thea. "To get a better view of the people I guess. He said he'll be back soon". We both took out seats next to them. After a small while of casual chatting, the lights dimmed and and then focused on the center of the podium where an elegant looking lady stood. 

She began to speak but my attention was diverted by Andrew coming to sit next to us. "I didn't spot her but I found her PA. I'll find out her whereabouts later". His voice was almost overshadowed by the anchor's voice blaring through the speakers. "This fundraiser has been serving a good cause ever since being founded fourteen years ago, and this wouldn't be possible without the help of some of our sponsors who are kind enough to constantly contribute a lot of resources to the foundation. It would be ungrateful of us not to appreciate them so kindly join me as I invite our first sponsor. A round of applause for Warren Smith of the Smith Refineries". 

The hall echoed with the sound of applause while a short bald man with a pudgy stomach climbed up the stage. He began to talk but I found my attention slipping away, thinking about how I could be finding out a way to stop Alpha Zane's plans and improving on my strength.

"Thank you for all the kind words Mr. Elijah. Without further ado, let's get to the "charity" in this charity function. Due to some circumstances, an auction will not be taking place this year. however, we have provided various other means for making donations. we have stations set up so you can make donations using cash, credit cards, or checks; donation forms, pledge cards, charity merchandise and sponsorship opportunities are also welcomed. Do keep in mind that all donations will be done here alone and in consideration to your busy schedules, only two hours will be given as the donation period. Without wasting any more time, please start''.

The lady explained and got off the stage, an image of a clock ticking on the large screen. A large amount of the people, including Andrew had gone to the stalls manned by some staff while others, along with the rest of us waited behind and mingled or did other things. "No donation, Thea?" Mike simply asked. "I'll probably fill a pledge card'' she scrolled through her phone.

I looked around, trying not to focus on the competitive air that filled the hall. Nope, still no sign of her. By then, Andrew had returned and was boasting to Mike who asked how much he had donated. Thea was still busy on her phone and Tony was talking to someone else, so I used the bathroom excuse to roam around for a bit and perhaps look for Marina.

I questioned a few guys who approached me and all I got was that  she's always donated money here but no one knew if she actually comes here. "I heard that you have to be here to participate but no one's ever seen her? That's either a load of bull or the picture you have is fake" Eden ranted. "Right. You should also keep a look out for her, okay?" I instructed her and she gave a loud huff. I guess she likes challenges like these.